2025 NFL Honors: Full List of Award Winners Revealed
The 15th annual NFL Honors ceremony brought glamour and gridiron glory to San Francisco's Palace of Fine Arts on February 5, 2026. Hosted by acclaimed actor Jon Hamm, the event served as the perfect prelude to Super Bowl LX, honoring the 2025 season's brightest stars. From Associated Press (AP) accolades to special league awards and the reveal of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, the night was a celebration of excellence, resilience, and impact both on and off the field.
As fans in the UK and around the world tuned in, the NFL showcased why American football continues to captivate global audiences. With the season's highs and lows fresh in memory, these awards highlighted breakout performances, veteran triumphs, and emerging talents. Let's dive into the key winners and what their victories mean for the league moving forward.
AP Most Valuable Player: Matthew Stafford's Commanding Season
Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford claimed the AP Most Valuable Player award, presented by Invisalign, capping off a remarkable year where he led Los Angeles to a deep playoff run. Stafford's precision passing and leadership under pressure were pivotal, throwing for over 4,800 yards and 38 touchdowns while minimizing turnovers. This marks his first MVP honor, a testament to his evolution from a journeyman QB to a franchise cornerstone. For UK fans following the NFL's international growth, Stafford's win underscores the league's appeal to strategic minds who appreciate quarterback mastery.
AP Coach of the Year: Mike Vrabel's Tactical Genius in New England
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel earned AP Coach of the Year honors, transforming a rebuilding squad into contenders. Vrabel's defensive schemes and player development—especially with young QB Drake Maye—revitalized the Pats, securing a wildcard spot. His prior success with the Titans makes this a homecoming of sorts, proving his coaching acumen transcends teams. In a league where coaching carousel spins fast, Vrabel's award signals stability for the AFC East.
Assistant Coach Spotlight: Josh McDaniels' Offensive Overhaul
Complementing Vrabel, Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels took home AP Assistant Coach of the Year. McDaniels' play-calling unlocked explosive plays, boosting the team's scoring by 25% from the prior season. His veteran insight, honed over decades with the Patriots dynasty, continues to innovate.
AP Offensive Player of the Year: Jaxon Smith-Njigba's Breakout
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba dazzled as AP Offensive Player of the Year, presented by Microsoft Copilot. The young star amassed 1,400 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, becoming Geno Smith's go-to target. His route-running finesse and yards-after-catch ability redefined the WR position, earning him FedEx Air Player honors too. For European viewers, JSN's rise mirrors the Premier League's young phenoms, blending speed and smarts.
AP Defensive Player of the Year: Myles Garrett's Sack Record Shattered
Cleveland Browns DE Myles Garrett dominated once again, winning AP Defensive Player of the Year presented by TCL and the Deacon Jones Sack Leader Award with a league-record 22.5 sacks. Garrett's relentless pursuit disrupted offenses league-wide, anchoring the Browns' top-ranked defense. This repeat honor cements his legacy as one of the all-time greats, inspiring UK fans who admire defensive prowess akin to rugby's fierce forwards.
Defensive Rookie Sensation: Carson Schwesinger
Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger burst onto the scene as AP Defensive Rookie of the Year, presented by EA SPORTS Madden NFL. With 120 tackles and 8 sacks, the rookie phenom filled gaps seamlessly, earning starts from Week 1. His instincts and motor suggest a future star in Cleveland's stout front seven.
AP Comeback Player of the Year: Christian McCaffrey's Resilient Return
San Francisco 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey staged an epic comeback, winning AP Comeback Player of the Year and FedEx Ground Player honors. Overcoming injuries that sidelined him mid-season, McCaffrey rushed for 1,600 yards and added 500 receiving, powering the 49ers' dynamic offense. He also snagged the Salute to Service Award from USAA, recognizing his military support efforts. McCaffrey's dual-threat style keeps him indispensable in Kyle Shanahan's scheme.
Rookie Accolades: Tetairoa McMillan's Offensive Flash
Carolina Panthers WR Tetairoa McMillan lit up the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year award, presented by EA SPORTS Madden NFL. The Arizona product hauled in 95 catches for 1,200 yards, providing a safety valve for Bryce Young. McMillan's contested-catch ability and speed injection revitalized Carolina's passing game, hinting at a bright future for the franchise.
Hall of Fame Class of 2026: Legends Immortalized
The Pro Football Hall of Fame unveiled its Class of 2026, presented by Novartis: Drew Brees (QB, Saints), Larry Fitzgerald (WR, Cardinals), Luke Kuechly (LB, Panthers), Adam Vinatieri (K, multiple teams), and Roger Craig (RB, 49ers). Brees' pinpoint accuracy and records, Fitzgerald's sure hands, Kuechly's tackling genius, Vinatieri's clutch kicks, and Craig's versatility define eras. This class, announced three days before Super Bowl LX, adds prestige to the festivities.
Other Notable Awards: Impact Beyond the Field
Chicago Bears guard Joe Thuney won the inaugural Protector of the Year, shielding QBs with zero sacks allowed in key games. Washington Commanders LB Bobby Wagner's off-field philanthropy earned him the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, presented by Nationwide. Arizona Cardinals S Budda Baker exemplified grace under fire with the Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award.
Special nods went to NFL Fan of the Year Edward Callahan (Eagles), NFL FLAG Players Brysen Wright and Ava Rotondi (presented by Toyota), Jim Brown Award to Bills RB James Cook, and high school coaches Dave Ettinger (Garden City) and Dylen Smith (Palisades Charter) via Don Shula and Jersey Mike's awards. The Next Gen Stats Moment of the Year highlighted Bears QB Caleb Williams' hail mary to DJ Moore against the Packers.
The 2025 NFL Honors not only recapped a thrilling season but set the tone for Super Bowl LX. With stars like Stafford and Garrett leading the charge, the league's future looks electric. For UK audiences, events like this bridge the Atlantic, making NFL a global passion. Stay tuned to Everythiiing.com for Super Bowl coverage and beyond.
